My Harvey table saw review and also need advice

[smorgasBored3]

I recently borrowed a Harvey 4HP 36inch table saw from a friend who got it on sale. I wanted to try it out before deciding whether to buy one for myself and so far noticing a few things. The viewfinder seems a bit tricky for precise measurements and while the hi low fence is handy the thumb screws are hard to tighten fully. This makes it shift slightly and hit the top at times. The dust collection system feels less effective than expected especially with the multiple 90degree turns and the reduction from 2 1/2 to 1 1/4 inches.

Has anyone used this model and experienced similar issues? Im curious if these are common or if there are ways to improve its performance. Im also weighing my options and considering models like the Sawstop ICS, Delta 5HP Unisaw or Jet 5HP. If youve worked with these saws and have advice on how they compare, would appreciate hearing your thoughts before I make a final decision

 

[gunsling]

I recently borrowed a Harvey 4HP 36inch table saw from a friend who got it on sale. I wanted to try it out before deciding whether to buy one for myself and so far noticing a few things. The viewfinder seems a bit tricky for precise measurements and while the hi low fence is handy the thumb screws are hard to tighten fully. This makes it shift slightly and hit the top at times. The dust collection system feels less effective than expected especially with the multiple 90degree turns and the reduction from 2 1/2 to 1 1/4 inches.

Has anyone used this model and experienced similar issues? Im curious if these are common or if there are ways to improve its performance. Im also weighing my options and considering models like the Sawstop ICS, Delta 5HP Unisaw or Jet 5HP. If youve worked with these saws and have advice on how they compare, would appreciate hearing your thoughts before I make a final decision

sounds like that Harvey saw took 'dust collection' a bit too literally. lol! if precision and usability are saws' MVP traits, check Sawstop ICS for safety smarts or Delta for muscle; thumb screws might need an ergonomic upgrade, but what about a laser guide for pinpoint accuracy?

 

[TmAfterTm]

I recently borrowed a Harvey 4HP 36inch table saw from a friend who got it on sale. I wanted to try it out before deciding whether to buy one for myself and so far noticing a few things. The viewfinder seems a bit tricky for precise measurements and while the hi low fence is handy the thumb screws are hard to tighten fully. This makes it shift slightly and hit the top at times. The dust collection system feels less effective than expected especially with the multiple 90degree turns and the reduction from 2 1/2 to 1 1/4 inches.

Has anyone used this model and experienced similar issues? Im curious if these are common or if there are ways to improve its performance. Im also weighing my options and considering models like the Sawstop ICS, Delta 5HP Unisaw or Jet 5HP. If youve worked with these saws and have advice on how they compare, would appreciate hearing your thoughts before I make a final decision

I was thinking about buying this model too, after I read your post I may find other brand or maybe other model

 

[Arel Malevin]

I recently borrowed a Harvey 4HP 36inch table saw from a friend who got it on sale. I wanted to try it out before deciding whether to buy one for myself and so far noticing a few things. The viewfinder seems a bit tricky for precise measurements and while the hi low fence is handy the thumb screws are hard to tighten fully. This makes it shift slightly and hit the top at times. The dust collection system feels less effective than expected especially with the multiple 90degree turns and the reduction from 2 1/2 to 1 1/4 inches.

Has anyone used this model and experienced similar issues? Im curious if these are common or if there are ways to improve its performance. Im also weighing my options and considering models like the Sawstop ICS, Delta 5HP Unisaw or Jet 5HP. If youve worked with these saws and have advice on how they compare, would appreciate hearing your thoughts before I make a final decision

Good thing you were able to test it first, at least you got to see what you like and don't like about it.

From your choices, I'd say get the Delta 5HP Unisaw, it's a classic and easy to operate too!

 

[smorgasBored3]

sounds like that Harvey saw took 'dust collection' a bit too literally. lol! if precision and usability are saws' MVP traits, check Sawstop ICS for safety smarts or Delta for muscle; thumb screws might need an ergonomic upgrade, but what about a laser guide for pinpoint accuracy?

True, the dust setup seems more form than function. Have you actually added a laser guide to one of these models, and if so, did it improve accuracy enough to justify the extra step?

 

[smorgasBored3]

I was thinking about buying this model too, after I read your post I may find other brand or maybe other model

Might be wise to look before you leap. Are there specific features you're prioritizing or problems you're hoping to avoid based on this post?

 

[smorgasBored3]

Good thing you were able to test it first, at least you got to see what you like and don't like about it.

From your choices, I'd say get the Delta 5HP Unisaw, it's a classic and easy to operate too!

Trying before buying definitely saved me some guesswork. Have you run the Delta 5HP through heavy hardwood cuts, and if so, how did it hold up over time?

 

[sawdusttherapyclub25]

That dust thing with your friend's Harvey? My friend had the same issue with his cabinet saw. The dust port inside wasn't sealed right, not just the curves in the pipe. For fence drift, check the glide pads. If they are too tight or too loose, that could be the problem. Regarding SawStop versus Unisaw, people love SawStops because they kill vibration so well (besides just being safe). That makes them super smooth, which is good if you need things to be precise with your viewfinder.

 

[smorgasBored3]

That dust thing with your friend's Harvey? My friend had the same issue with his cabinet saw. The dust port inside wasn't sealed right, not just the curves in the pipe. For fence drift, check the glide pads. If they are too tight or too loose, that could be the problem. Regarding SawStop versus Unisaw, people love SawStops because they kill vibration so well (besides just being safe). That makes them super smooth, which is good if you need things to be precise with your viewfinder.

I hadn't thought to check those on the borrowed saw at the time. I ended up purchasing the Sawstop ICS back in May and the low vibration you mentioned has been a noticeable benefit.